Duration

October 2013 - September 2015

Narrative

In response to growing concerns about the economic and ecological impact of feral hog populations among federal, state, and local leadership within the state of South Carolina, Clemson University seeks to develop novel management approaches to reduce invasive feral hog damage. This project will utilize public surveys to identify lands/stakeholders with severe feral hog damage within the state. These sites will serve as pilot areas to further develop innovative camera trap tools (in addition to traditional methods) to manage and reduce feral hog damage. This project will allow us to assess the effectiveness of a technical assistance and cost-sharing program (materials and equipment) to reduce feral hog damage on EQIP eligible producers’ property. The results of this project will be used to develop a set of “best practices” management recommendations that will be communicated to natural resource managers, community members and the NRCS. Based on the results of this project, we will also implement meetings and training events to allow landowners to be trained in the most effective feral hog management techniques.